An investment in your health

COMMENTS FROM CHERYL

By CHERYL WALKER Milam AgriLife Extension Agent

Walking is not a favorite pasttime for most of us, but it is a great way to get exercise. Walking is one of the safest and easiest ways to get the required amount of physical activity we need each week.

It’s cheaper than a gym membership, more fun than a stationary bike, more convenient than swimming, and easier on the muscles, joints and feet than running! All you need are some good walking shoes and comfortable clothing.

Research shows sustained, regular exercise, like walking, reduces the risk of several lifethreatening diseases, including heart disease, stroke and probably certain cancers. For people with diabetes, it improves the way insulin works and gives you improved blood glucose readings.

Check with your doctor prior to exercising to make sure everything is okay with your health.

When you start an exercise program, start slow and build up. If you are in pain after a walk, you are probably doing too much. If you need a little motivation, sign-up for the Walk Across Texas program going on now in Milam County and across the State.

To sign-up for Walk Across Texas, come by the Milam County Extension Office at 100 E. 1st Street in Cameron, call 254- 697-7045 or sign up at http:// walkacrosstexas.tamu.edu/.

Texas AgriLife Extension Service has sponsored Walk Across Texas for over 10 years. Join in the fun this spring.

Diabetes course

Type 2 diabetics need to keep up with the latest nutritional and medical information. Each year the Milam Extension office partners with local medical professionals to provide the five-part series called “Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes.” This spring Little River Medical Clinic in Rockdale is co-sponsoring our course.

The free classes will be held from 9-11 a.m. on the following Wednesdays at Little River Medical Clinic meeting room at 602 N. Main in Rockdale: April 28, May 5, 12, 19 and 26.

If you are a Type 2 Diabetic or a family member of a diabetic, sign-up for the free course by contacting the Milam County Extension Office 254-697-7045 or email ce-walker@tamu.edu.

During the course we will cover information on diabetes risks, medicines, foot care, carbohydrate counting, meal planning, eating out hints, and much more. The information provided in the course will assist diabetics as they manage their blood sugar levels.